Optimal - The Blog

August 12, 2022

D-dimer is Not a Dime You Want to Drop

D-dimer is a marker of blood clotting; if it's elevated, you'll want to investigate further. It is produced during the breakdown of blood clots, and the higher the D-dimer, the more blood clotting is going on.

A high level may indicate a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism and in general, is considered pathological. Levels can also increase during infection, inflammation, malignancy, and heart, liver, and kidney disease. Higher levels were associated with an increased risk of mortality from COVID-19. However, elevated levels may also be associated with pregnancy.

D-dimer is usually not detectable in the blood, so elevations should be monitored and followed up.

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CLICK HERE to learn more about d-Dimer, health consequences, optimal ranges, etc.

 

Tag(s): Biomarkers

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